Saturday, July 30, 2016

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Not much shopping or browsing has been done for me this week since I am on my family vacation, but these are some of the pieces I have come across! A lot of the pieces I've included are super affordable, I was so surprised about this black dress. At just $13 it is such a steal and too cute.

What is everyone's plan for the weekend? I am still here at the lake and having a blast, but between Martha's Vineyard and being at the lake, I haven't been home in weeks. I am looking forward to getting home and getting back into my normal routine/groove. Plus I've about maxed out on my tanning potential ;)

Friday, July 29, 2016

If there ever was a comfy maxi dress, this is it. One part gorgeous and elegant and one part soooo comfortable (it feels like pajamas)! This is one of those must-have pieces for any of your travels. Not only is it insanely comfortable (it's a nice, thick, stretchy fabric), but it doesn't wrinkle in a suitcase. So you can just throw it on and go-- which, in my opinion, is the best kind of outfit. It says to hand wash on the site and on the washing instructions, but I tossed it in my washing machine and it held up perfectly! As for sizing, it runs true to size (I'm in a size small).

I wore this maxi dress for our first night out in Martha's Vineyard. There's a backstory to this that is quite dramatic (I'm being semi-sarcastic, here). I had flown PIT-BOS, which ended up being cancelled, so I had to fly out on a different (later) flight. Then I flew BOS-MVY via Cape Air. If you've ever flown Cape Air or any airline that consists of puddle jumpers, then you know how small the cargo area can be. This time, there were only 4 people on my flight and they told me I could sit right in the copilot seat. Yeah, it was that small. As I landed on Martha's Vineyard, I waited for my luggage in the tiny little area, and it never came. I went to the desk and just as I had thought, they lost my luggage.

So, by the time my luggage made it back to me, I had been in my same clothes for about 20 hours. My entire morning was about as comical as could be. At one point, I just laughed at myself because of how ridiculous it was. I will say, I've never been happier to put on a different outfit than I was when I finally got my luggage back. This maxi dress could not have been a better choice, either. So comfortable and easy breezy. We shot these photos on the porch of the Summercamp Hotel, and also right across the street. The wraparound porch was so lovely to relax on, especially in the mornings and sip our coffee (it was free when you stay at Summercamp!). Our rooms overlooked the harbour and it was so much fun to see the boats coming in and out of their slips.

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Thursday, July 28, 2016

I'm back this week with a lately post! I was so sad I didn't have the time to get one up last week as this is always one of my favorite posts to write, and I know it's always one of the most popular posts each week, so thanks for being understanding and sticking with me!

Can you believe we are just days away from August? My cousin, Jack, who lives in Atlanta starts school on Monday (his first day of high school!!), isn't that crazy that it's already that time of year?! Fall is my favorite season, and while I always get excited and look forward to that time of year, summer is just such a fun and special time. I've had an amazing summer thus far, so I plan on living it up all through August!

Wearing: I am so backlogged on outfit posts right now! I have so many cute outfits to post, so keep an eye out for that! In the above widget are some of the pieces that I have been wearing and that you'll see here on Summer Wind soon!

Loving: My friend Carly brought us these amazing sleep masks on our trip to Martha's Vineyard! You all know how big of a fan I am of sleep masks... I can't sleep without one! I am pretty sure I've tried every single one under the sun, but Carly totally knocked it out of the park with this Iluminage mask! The idea behind it is that the silky soft fabric is infused with copper, which is supposed to soothe the skin. It has 'anti-aging' properties. Beyond that, the strap is adjustable and it truly is extremely comfortable to wear while blocking out all light. Not to mention, it's washable and the anti-aging properties stay put for 100+ washes. It's the best mask I've ever used. It is currently $9 off as part of the #Nsale, so act fast if this seems like something you'd love!

Loving II: I recently tried out some Label M hair products that were sent to me and I am obsessed. The honey oat hair mask has been my favorite (it smells like fall!!), but the sea salt spray is a close second (I've been keeping it in my pool tote!). In other hair news, I've also been using Solia's hair dryer and straightener. I love trying new hot tools and this pair is great! If you've noticed, I've been straightening my hair a little more often than usual just because of how great this straightener works! Not to mention, the blow dryer is great to travel with because it's so powerful, yet so lightweight!

Watching: I hate that am typing this but: The Bachelorette Finale has me all kinds of excited. I have never been a Bachelor/Bachelorette person until the most recent season of the Bachelor and now I am hooked. We do a girl's night on Mondays where we get together to watch (and it's so fun), so I think that's partially why, but now I am so excited for the finale!

Eating: Zaxby's. If you are from the south, you probably think this is no big deal, but we have no Zaxby's in Pittsburgh or anywhere near us, so when we are down in Georgia, we always make a point to stop at Zaxby's. I think it's so much better than Cane's/Bojangles. YUM!

Drinking: I've been favoring a dark 'n stormy lately, which is basically a Moscow mule with dark rum instead of vodka. It's so delicious and refreshing-- the perfect easy summertime cocktail! You can find the recipe here.

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Sale-ing: The Nordstrom Anniversary sale is still in full effect. A lot of stuff is sold out and few sizes are left, but I've been noticing some restocking here and there on some of the more popular items. This adorable flamingo float is still in stock! We've been lounging on her all week but are all convinced she has a mind of her own/attitude problem... so you've been warned!

Listening: I went through every single one of my playlists on Spotify and pulled all of the songs that I thought would be great for 'easy listening' but that aren't Sinatra/jazz/etc. It's an eclectic mix of 100+ songs, but great for background noise, dinner with friends, working, driving, etc. And, as I've said in the past, I love all of your snapchats with music recommendations-- you are all the best and I really appreciate it! Keep them coming!

Recommending: My mom had this sunscreen in her tote this week and I am obsessed. The spray goes on so light and evenly and it leaves no residue whatsoever. I use this all over my body and then I've been using 55 on my face! I especially pay attention to my chest/neck area since that's the area that is prone to wrinkles/aging earliest.

Quoting: "Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time." - John Lubbock

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Today I thought I would share what I wore in Martha's Vineyard now that you've all seen the Like to Know It Takeover! These were the photos that were used, so I've rounded up the pieces right under each photo.

I love New England weather. It's usually warm and sunny during the day and 'sweatshirt weather' at night. It's just the best! Luckily, the entire time we were there, the weather was absolute perfection.

Typically, when I pack for any trip, I stick to a color palette. When I get asked about my 'packing tips', this is always one of the first things I suggest. Sticking to only a few colors makes everything much easier because if you stick to a color palette, you are sure to be able to mix and match. Not to mention, it usually helps me to cut down on the items I bring... and I need all the help I can get because I am a notorious over-packer.

For this trip (and for most summer trips) I stuck to whites and blues and then mixed in accessories from there. In the winter, I usually will go with all black and then add in pops here and there with accessories/handbags/etc. Not only is it easy to mix and match, but I always spill on myself (the worst is wearing white with morning coffee), so it's always good to be able to change out my top/shorts/ etc. if that happens!

To cut down on the 'stuff' I bring, I really limit shoes and handbags. I knew we were going to be doing a ton of walking on this trip, so I was sure to pack my most comfortable shoes. I ended up only bringing two pairs, which are my go-to summer shoes. These wedges and these flat sandals are my favorite and definitely my most-worn shoes! I limited it to two bags, too. One that matched pretty much everything and then one for a pop of color!

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Just popping in quickly today since I am at my lake house and trying to enjoy some family time! However, I have some fun and exciting news! I am taking over the Like To Know It Instagram handle along with Katie, Kendall, and Carly today! We are sharing some images from our girls' trip to Martha's Vineyard! It was so much fun spending the week with these girls and we couldn't have asked for better weather while we were there. We fit in so many fun activities (thank you to everyone who gave great recommendations!!), which I'll share more about on Summer Wind next week, but today's takeover is like the Cliff Notes version!

If you're not familiar, Like To Know it is how you can shop people's instagrams. All you need to do is sign up for an account and then every time you like someone's instagram that uses the LTK links, you'll get an e-mail telling you where to get things!

If you're like me and hate e-mails, you can turn this feature off, but you can still visit the link featured in the caption or go directly to that blogger's Like to Know It page. You can find my entire Like to Know It page here! There's a great, quick video that also explains how it works which you can find, here. Thanks so much for following along!

Monday, July 25, 2016

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We all know that I love a good ruffle top: case-in-point, last week's post. So when I saw this $38 tee, I knew I had to have it. It's been so hot here so I have been reaching for things that are light and breezy and this top is just that. It comes in several other colors, I'm definitely eyeing the black for fall/winter. It runs decently big, so I'd size down if you are in between sizes... but it's not a big issue if it's a little big since the fit is meant to be so flowy.

My sister came over one afternoon and we decided to take a long walk to lunch. It was really warm, so I wore something easy and comfortable. These shorts have been one of my most-worn items this summer. They are so easy to just throw-on-and-go. Unfortunately, it looks like they are sold out, however, you can find many similar pairs like these and these.

Callie had these sunglasses on and I asked her if we could swap for the day. They're something I really don't think I would ever buy for myself since they are pretty trendy/large, but I really loved how they looked with this outfit!

Currently, I am at my lake house in Georgia, so be sure to follow along on Snapchat (@SummerWind41490). I am here with about 16 family members and we are having so much fun. I just love being at the lake. It's so relaxing and such a great break from 'real life'. Plus, it's so great to be surrounded by family all week-- it's one of those really great feelings in life that I look forward to each year. I am so thankful to be able to spend the time with them in such a gorgeous setting.

Sunday, July 24, 2016

Remember my post last fall recapping my quick night spent at the Pittsburgh Airport Marriott? Well, they generously hosted me for another night because my flight to Martha's Vineyard was taking off at 5am (rough) Needless to say, it was a blessing to be able to stay at the Marriott and not have to wake up as early as I would have had I slept at home!

Since my first stay, the Pittsburgh Airport Marriott underwent a $4.5 million renovation and completely transformed everything! Not to mention there's now a new farm-to-table restaurant called The Runner Stone Mill House and a brand new fitness center, so it was fun to check out all of the amenities, including a great pool.

I loved grabbing a seat at the bar of Runner Stone Mill House and grabbing something to eat while having a great glass of wine and being able to get a little work done on my computer. It was a nice way to wind down before an early bedtime. I had the broccoli cheddar soup and then the delicious salmon. I also loved that they had one of my favorite pinot noirs, too!

The hotel is bright and beautiful and has a stylish, modern, upscale vibe. I love that it is only 5 miles from the airport because it makes catching early flights a lot more convenient. I also loved the giant marble shower with a rain shower head. SO relaxing and felt very pampering. Not to mention, I love little touches like shelves/plenty of counter space so I can spread out all of my products! Plenty of outlets to charge my electronics are always great, too!

Not to mention, my all-time favorite thing about the hotel is that they have a free shuttle service that takes you straight to the check-in desk at the airport. I hate having to park far away, pay for parking, and then lug all of my luggage to the check-in area and the shuttle service solves all of those issues! All in all it was a great stay and I'm so thankful to the Marriott for having me! Hope to be back again soon!

Friday, July 22, 2016

Alright, everyone, today is the day! You can now shop the Nordstrom Anniversary sale whether you are a card holder or not! It's a free for all, so act fast. This is this biggest shopping day of the sale, so it's important to check out ASAP or your items might sell out! The prices officially go back up on August 8th.

Today I am sharing some of my favorite wear-to-work staples. I styled this gorgeous lace shell and tweed mini as a desk-to-drinks look. I absolutely love this tweed skirt. It came out last year, and I got it then, too. It's a great, versatile piece. You can wear it out at night but also to work. Not to mention it looks great with tights in the winter. The entire skirt is somewhat stretchy/flexible so it really sucks you in which makes for a flattering look. The thick waistband is also slimming and figure flattering. It runs true to size for a figure hugging fit.

I am in a size 4. I'm always between a 2 and 4 in skirts, but this skirt is really fitted, so I got the 4 and it fits like a glove. The lace tank is a classic staple that you can wear now and into the fall. It runs slightly big, so if between sizes, size down. I am in an XS. I've pulled some more of my favorite wear-to-work pieces from the sale below!

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Classic Trench Coat// Trench coats are usually pretty pricey regardless of brand or where you buy from. I have one from Brooks Brothers that I just love and wear all the time. It's somewhat seasonless and works on the weekend and weekdays. I really love this option because the subtle leather trim gives it a chic, updated look and it is very affordable compared to other trench coat options!

Black Sheath Dress// Part conservative, but also part sexy, this is a great wear-to-work dress, but also a great evening dress depending on how you style it. The cut is so ladylike, but the shape of the dress accentuates your curves, making it a gorgeous piece! Pair it with classic black pumps and pearls for a beautiful wear-to-work ensemble, or strappy sandals and statement earrings to wear out to dinner!

Wrap Watch// A watch is a staple for both men and women. I am definitely a watch person, so I have a lot, but in most cases, I'm always wearing my Cartier tank watch. However, I absolutely love (and want) the Hermes Cape Cod Double Tour watch. It's a beautiful classic-- one day! This watch looks so similar and at $116, it definitely won't break the bank.

Leopard Belt// If you work in a conservative office and want to add a dose of 'fun' to your outfit, I think a leopard print belt is a great, but subtle way to do so. I love wearing all black and adding the leopard belt for that 'pop' that all black sometimes needs! I also love a leopard belt with a crisp white button down shirt and dark skinny jeans. It's such a classic look but not bland!

Cashmere Waterfall Cardigan// This is a great price and you'll get an even better price per wear. I like to keep a cardigan just like this on the back of my chair. Whether the air conditioning is on full blast or it's snowing outside, a cozy cashmere sweater is just what you need. Buy it in a neutral so it will go with whatever you have on at work! It's also the perfect loungewear piece, too, because it looks great with leggings and a tee!

**There's also a less pricey cashmere wrap (under $100!) which is also a great option for keeping at your desk. It's 1/3 the price of my favorite cashmere wrap and it's the exact same size. I'd go for a neutral like the oatmeal, gray, or black, but I also love the blush shade for a pop of color!

Diamond Studs// Besides pearl studs, diamond studs are my go-to earrings for everyday wear. My dad gave me gorgeous real diamond studs when I was 14, but I don't wear them on an everyday basis, just because it makes me nervous. I have a few pair of CZ studs that I like to wear. For example, I'll wear the CZ studs while traveling/on vacation, I keep a pair at my desk because I always forget earrings in the morning, and keep an extra pair in my arsenal because I'm prone to losing earrings. This option is a great price, and if real diamond studs aren't within your budget, these are 'believable' because they're only 2 carats total weight, which are what my real diamond studs are (that means you have a carat on each ear!). I also like these as a cheaper option and they're more 'fun'!

Nude Wedge// A nude wedge is a wardrobe staple whether it is for work or play! I personally prefer a wedge whenever I can get away with it because it is much more comfortable than a regular pump. I love the peep toe on these and the embellishment at the toe (there's a closed-toe option, too!). The price for the quality and brand is a really good buy, too. They also come in navy and black, which I think are both great neutral shades for the office!

Leather Tote// I love love love this simple tan leather bag. Whether you are commuting or traveling a lot for work, a leather tote is an absolute essential. When buying a leather tote, I always make sure it is large enough to fit my computer, and this one is! It's a quality, neutral piece that's definitely worth the price.